The half-day showcase is free for the public and the action starts at 9 am. Large crowds are expected to flock to the temporary street circuit, which starts at the Emirates Palace and winds its way along Abu Dhabi’s waterfront to Marina Mall. Eight giant television screens will be placed along the route to make sure no one misses a moment of action and, before the Formula One cars start revving their engines, organisers plan to hand out tens of thousands of free earplugs to the crowd. Complementary bottled water will also ensure spectators don’t go thirsty.
“The F1 Festival is a credit to the people of Abu Dhabi as very few cities in the world would be able to create an event of this size and stature,” said His Highness, Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority. “It promises to be a truly memorable experience for the entire family, so we encourage people to set their alarm clocks and make sure they don’t miss a minute of the action.”
Hundreds of safety barriers have begun to be installed along the track and construction is also underway at the VIP grandstand, where invited guests will enjoy a prime viewing position for the extravaganza. Designated parking areas will be set up at the Marina Mall car park, next to the Hilton Hotel, and between the Intercontinental Hotel and the Al Bateen Marina. However, with road closures expected to begin from 9 am, spectators are encouraged to arrive early.
The full schedule is as follows:
0900: Road closures in place. Entertainment begins on big screens.
0930: Drivers practice in FIA Safety Car - to be shown on big screens.
1000: VIP pit visit, led by ex-driver Martin Brundle - to be shown on big screens.
1040: Driver parade.
1100: Formula One cars perform a lap of the circuit, one team at a time.
1210: Formula One cars perform a final lap in 2006 championship order.
1220: Flypast by Etihad Airways.
1225: Event concludes.
Source: www.formula1.com
Photo: www.ameinfo.com
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